Opinion: My Final Thoughts Before Election Day

The following op-ed was written by Norwalk Mayoral candidate Lisa Brinton:

Campaigning throughout our diverse city for the last six months, I’ve met nearly 10,000
Norwalkers from all walks of life and all political parties. I’m humbled by the coalition of
residents who’ve come together in support of my grassroots effort to be Norwalk’s next mayor.
My Norwalk Unaffiliated, Republican and Democrat supporters, whom I affectionately refer to
as NURDs, are interested in policy over party. Like myself, they’ve expressed concern that single
party rule, partisan politics often conflate national with local issues, and breed cronyism and
lack of government transparency. I’m energized at the idea of representing all Norwalkers and
addressing their concerns to help bring a bright future to our city.

What residents I’ve spoken with share in common, regardless of their political leanings, are
their hometown pride for Norwalk, and their concern that our elected officials haven’t
protected their beloved city from the negative unintended consequences of their decision
making regarding development projects, population increase’s strain on infrastructure, historic
shortchanging of NPS education funding, and financial burden of increasing property taxes and
stagnating property values. Many who’ve attended city hall meetings have expressed that
they’ve felt unheard when communicating their suggestions and concerns to our elected
officials.

If elected mayor, I pledge to protect our city’s character and make our quality of life a priority.
With my corporate business expertise, I’ll pursue more balanced economic development,
ensuring that infrastructure projects and new developments benefit Norwalkers and add to our
revenues. I’ll diversify revenue sources by growing economic commerce and supporting small
business. I’ll fight hard for fair educational funding from Hartford, proactively securing other
means of fundraising through grant writing and outreach to philanthropic organizations. I’ll
restore balance to our Common Council so it functions in a manner representative of all
residents. Finally, I’ll defend my fellow residents fiercely against special interests and state
politics, being a good steward of their taxpayer dollars.

With Norwalkers’ good faith and support, I’ll bring a more transparent and resident inclusive,
nonpartisan style of leadership to city hall. I’ll foster a unified community where all residents
are heard in deciding our future. Party affiliations aside, we all share the same dream of
keeping Norwalk an affordable and livable community where all are welcome and all can afford
to call this great city home. I pledge to work tirelessly in pursuit of our shared dream, which is
why I hope I can count on your vote this Tuesday, November 5 th ! Fellow NURDs, only TOGETHER
can we change the narrative of Norwalk local politics, because it’s our city, our future, your
voice!

By Lisa Brinton
Norwalk Mayoral Candidate
Unaffiliated, endorsed by the Republican Party