Norwalk Election 2021: Dominique Johnson For Common Council

NORWALK, CT — Election Day is approaching fast, and a number of key positions in town 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 a few topics.

Democrat Dominique E. Johnson, 44, is running for Common Council, at-large in Norwalk.

Occupation: Nonprofit Consultant

Family: My wife, Billie Gastic Rosado, and I chose Norwalk as our home and bought our house here about 10 years ago.

Experience: Incumbent and Common Council at-large

Family in government: Two of my family members out West are State Troopers.

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

The single most pressing issue facing Norwalk is climate change. We must be more proactive in planning for a climate resilient future, which means laying the groundwork now. I will act boldly to advance Norwalk’s response to climate change. I began advocating for the development of a Climate Action Plan for the City back in early June. I will also continue to work for a more climate resilient Norwalk by promoting renewable energy, advocating for incentivizing green construction projects and energy efficient upgrades, and supporting initiatives to protect pollinators from habitat loss and chemical exposure.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

My work on the Common Council is strengthened by the expertise I bring from my experiences as a nonprofit professional and former public college professor, where I work alongside community-based organizations, nonprofit leaders, and startup founders to collaborate and create an even greater impact in their communities for social good.

Accomplishments:

During my first term I championed sustainability initiatives including Solar for All, led the update to the nondiscrimination definition in the Housing Equal Opportunity and Human Relations ordinances, brought State and City officials together for a vaccine equity initiative, advocated for more diverse recruitment for City Boards and Commissions, led the revision of a more inclusive definition of gender in the City Code, and facilitated the relaunch of the Commission on the Status of Women.

Other issues:

I am working hard every day for a more equitable, livable, and sustainable Norwalk so the next generation of Norwalkers can learn, grow, and live with the safety, support, and opportunities they deserve. I will continue to be there for all neighborhoods in the City as we build a more equitable Norwalk together. I will continue to advocate for: Increased support for minority-owned and women-owned businesses; equitable 21st century job creation including a small business incubator and entrepreneurship for all initiatives; And, public education funding for greater equity, including supporting child care and early childhood educational programs. I will also continue to be a fierce advocate for: walkable neighborhoods, clean parks and open spaces, housing options, and access to the great cultural enrichment Norwalk offers that makes families healthy and happy.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

I believe that local government should be responsive to the needs of residents, accessible to all, and a force for good in our diverse community where we share concern and care for each other. From pandemic recovery to everyday decisions that impact our livelihoods, we must center equity, act decisively guided by data and community input, and plan for a bright tomorrow for us all. I am dedicated to represent all Norwalkers so we can make an impact together, now and into the future. It is a privilege to serve you as an at-large Common Council member, currently serving on the Ordinance, Community Services and Personnel, and Health and Public Safety Committees. I earned a PhD from Temple University, an MA from Stanford University, and a BA from Bryn Mawr College.