Patch Candidate Profile: Barbara Smyth, Norwalk Common Council

NORWALK, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Norwalk and there are plenty of local races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Norwalk Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Democrat Barbara Smyth, 65, is a Norwalk resident running for Common Council at Large.

Education

B.A. in Communications from the University of Pittsburgh and an M.A. in Secondary English Education from Fairfield University.

What is your occupation?

Retired Norwalk Public Schools English Teacher.

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

I have three children; Alison, Benjamin, and Ethan, all grown; and two grandchildren, Henry 8 and Lila 5.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

Yes, I have been elected to the Common Council as an At-Large representative in 2017, 2019, and 2021.

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

I first decided to run for office in 2017 because I believed we needed more women's voices at the table. I continue to run because I feel strongly about public service and contributing to my community. It is a great honor to serve the City I love and where I have raised my family.

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

A good quality of life. Each year, I take very seriously the decision to set the CAP on Norwalk's operating budget and to approve the capital budget. Finding the right balance of supporting our schools and the city's infrastructure while keeping taxes fair is a very difficult task, but I do my best to consider all of our residents when making decisions.

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

I have no agenda other than to serve my community with honesty and integrity.

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

I will continue to advocate for fair taxes, quality education, affordable housing, and a sustainable, resilient Norwalk for our children and grandchildren.

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

I have been elected three times to the Norwalk Common Council and have served as Council President, Majority Leader, Chair of Community Services, and currently chair the Public Works Committee.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Both of my parents gave me the advice while I was growing up to always give back to my community. I am proud that I have followed that advice and have been honored to serve my beloved Norwalk as a member of the Common Council.

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

I listen to all sides and research the facts so that I am able to make the best decisions I can and work to improve the quality of life for all of Norwalk's residents